How to say no without offending

  • Jul 26, 2021
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How to say no without offending

Through language you also express your freedom of decision. There are words that despite their brevity can be quite a personal challenge. For example, it can be difficult for people to say "no" to requests for plans or a possible favor if we have a distorted view of what it means to say "no." A refusal does not imply a rejection of that person, but a temporary and concrete response to that message.

You can feel guilt both when you say "no" and when you say yes to what you wanted to say "no". And then you experience the side effect of the inner struggle. How to say no without offending? In Psychology-Online we give you ideas.

Here are five tips to achieve this goal:

Ask for time to think about your decision

When someone proposes a certain proposal, you don't have to respond right away. You can tell him that you will give him an answer shortly. In this way, you have time to think and, in turn, the interlocutor also observes this reflection in you.

Find the best moment

By giving yourself this extra time margin, you can also

plan the exact moment and message what do you want to convey. In relation to the appropriate channel to give your information, you can take into account what was the medium chosen by that person to talk to you. For example, if I send you a WhatsApp message, you can reply in the same way. On the contrary, if he spoke with you in a face-to-face conversation and the matter is important, you can call him on the phone. Apart from these indications, the most important thing is that you choose the channel with which you feel most comfortable. Namely, have empathy with you.

Practice assertive communication

Model the freedom of those who have said "no" to you with that same self-confidence and assertiveness that you want to practice. That is, learn from the example of other people. Another tip to say no without feeling guilty is to learn to encourage assertive communication.

Emotional intelligence

Even if you are afraid to take this step because you fear that a refusal will mean the end of that bond, think that that person does not deserve so much involvement on your part if this is the reason why move away.

Write it before you say it

Maybe you just need put your ideas in order Using the resource of writing as a way to anticipate that moment.

Therefore, saying "no" is a right. Listen to your inner voice and act from your freedom!

This article is merely informative, in Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.

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